Central midfield player Tyrone Duffus and his Bluebirds team-mates are intent on giving the Hornets a warm welcome to Cardiff City Stadium on Monday (7pm).

Watford are visitors for a Professional Under-23 Development League match, entry is free for spectators and former Everton youth player Duffus says: “Our focus is on Watford and we want to continue the good performances. 

“It will be a tough test, but we will aim to take all three points. We played well against Ipswich and the 2-2 draw away was a positive result.

“Ipswich are one of the best sides we’ve faced so far this season. We keep improving every week and our performances are getting better on the field.

“It’s disappointing that we didn’t come away with the win. We played well and created more chances than Ipswich, but we were unfortunate not to take all three points.”

Cheltenham-born Tyrone started his playing career with home town club Cheltenham along with his older brother, Courtney.

They both moved to Everton, but are now playing for different clubs. Republic of Ireland under-21 international Courtney joined Oldham Athletic and is now with Waterford, while 21-year-old Tyrone is a Bluebird. 

Under-23 coach Jarred Harvey gave his reaction at Ipswich, saying: “We were exceptional. We’re improving each week.

“We should have won. There were plenty of chances for us, especially towards the end. Lloyd Humphries smashed the bar and Tyrone Duffus missed an opportunity from point blank range. 

“Our energy intensity was lively and defensively we were resilient.”

Watford’s under-23 side is managed by Hayden Mullins, a former Crystal Palace, West Ham United and Portsmouth player.

The Bluebirds last faced the Hornets in a Premier League Cup clash at Watford’s training facilities last season and won 4-0.

Ogo Obi (2), Ibrahim Meite and Henri Ochieng scored City’s goals.